Entries Tagged as 'Asian Cars'

The Geneva Motor Show is fast approaching and the pre-show official-unofficial teasers keep on coming. Today’s teaser comes from Lexus in the form of a silhouette of their LF-SA concept. As per usual, besides the name and short press release laced with adjectives such as “driver focused” and “emotional” we don’t know anything about the concept. Usually I am pretty good at figuring these things out based on vague information but even this one has me scratching my head. At first I was excited at the “LF” in the concepts name as so far the only other Lexus vehicle with “LF” in the title is the powerful LF-A supercar. Yet, based on this teaser image, this vehicle’s large gaping maw does not cast the shadow of a super car. It looks more like an SUV than a sports car. Although camera angles can be deceiving. I guess we’ll see what the LF-SA is about once it makes its actual debut next month in Geneva. In the meantime I invite you to click the thumbnail below for a larger image and read the press release so you can play the speculation game with the rest of us. What do you think the LF-SA is going to be?

An illustration of Lexus’ passion for upcoming design trends, the LF-SA concept explores unexpected territories for the brand in a bold and emotional execution.

In a future world which many people see as increasingly influenced by technology and virtual
experiences, the LF-SA concept is also a driver-focused vehicle, reflecting Lexus’ vision that real experience will remain ultimate luxury.

The LF-SA concept will be revealed at the Lexus Press Conference taking place on March 3, 2015 at 12:30 P.M. at the Lexus stand (number 4211) in Palexpo, Hall 4.

Do you like the Scion tC? Do you also like the colors black and orange together? Well my friend you are in luck! The two-toned Scion tC Release Series 9.0 is now available at dealerships nationwide. The tC Release Series 9.0 (AKA RS9) is based (well pretty is) on a concept built by Cartel Customs which was shown off at SEMA last year. Scion has taken that concept and gone full-on, offering the package pretty much exactly as it was created with the black and orange theme through out. The interior carries on the theme with color matched stitching, door panel pieces, and finished off with orange seatbelts.

Performance wise the tC RS9 remains mostly stock with the exception of TRD lowering springs (which are also orange) and a TRD center exit exhaust. The tC RS9 can be had with an automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a traditional six-speed manual. Only 2000 tC RS9’s are available so if you want one, now is the time to go to the dealership. The automatic has an MSRP of $24,340 while the manual comes in at $23,190. Another $770 is thrown in for “processing and handling.” Basically most potential buyers should be looking to spend around $25-$26k for this little orange bang which isn’t a bad price for the exclusivity.

For HD resolution pictures just click on any of the thumbnails. You can also watch the walk around video and read the official press release below.

Press Release:

Dual Threat: Two-Tone Scion tC Release Series 9.0 Available Now

Distinctive tC Brings Together “Show Car” and Bold Driving

TORRANCE, Calif., (Jan. 20, 2015) – Double trouble has arrived in Scion dealerships. Scion paired up with Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs on the two-toned Scion tC Release Series 9.0. The new model combines style and substance and is based on a concept car developed for custom car shows.

A new walk-around video shows off the limited-edition color combination of magma orange and sleek black carried through both the vehicle’s custom exterior and interior. Even the front badge shows duality: the familiar Scion logo blacked out for the first time. Just 2,000 of these models have arrived in dealerships around the country, ready for purchase.

The Release Series 9.0 vehicles target drivers who feel at home both on the show floor and the open road. The unique exterior features a center exhaust, Cartel Customs-designed aero kit and eye-catching alloy wheels and matching caps. Inside, it’s all about the exotic orange: from the custom stitching and front seat belts to pops of painted details.

“There won’t be a way to miss the Scion tC Release Series 9.0 now that it has arrived in dealerships,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “This two-toned tC lets Scion fans have an everyday driver that looks like it’s straight out of a car show…because it is!”

The series vehicles come with either six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management® technology. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) is $23,190 for the manual transmission and $24,340 for the automatic transmission, excluding the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $770.

For more information about the tC Release Series 9.0, visit http://www.scion.com/cars/release_series/tCRS9/.

Just hours ago in Detroit, the sheet was finally pulled off the production version of the new Acura NSX. After three years of waiting, the world finally gets to know what the successor to Acura’s iconic sports car is all about. As far as its looks, nothing is really a surprise as the concept was revealed some time ago and as promised the production version is nearly identical. A few changes were made in its dimensions but they are so incremental (we’re talking millimeters here) that they are hardly worth mentioning.

What everyone was really waiting for was the numbers, as in specs of the new NSX. How much horsepower would it have? What would the new hybrid drive train be like? How much would it weigh? What kind of brakes would it have? And most importantly, how much is it going to cost? Well with its official reveal today we got the answers to some of those questions. Follow along to get the details…

The Engine

The new NSX will be a hybrid, which was a surprise when it was first announced but today with hybrid hyper cars like the McLaren P1, Porsche 918, and LaFerrari having an electric engine in a supercar is almost par for the course. Dubbed the “Super Hybrid Power Unit” the heart of the NSX’s powertrain is a 75 degree mid-mounted twin-turbo V6 engine. Yes, not one, but two turbos! The engine is bolted to a 9 speed (yeah, 9) DCT transmission which is capable of sending power to all the wheels via Acura’s SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) set up with torque vectoring. The DCT is promised to offer “synapse-quick” upshifts and automatic rev-matching on downshifts. There will be three electric motors on the new NSX the first one will sit in the rear between the V6 and the transmission. Its main purpose will be to aid in acceleration, braking, and shifting. Now, I’m not sure how an electric motor will help the transmission shift faster but I’m definitely no engineer! The other two electric motors will be mated to each of the front wheels independently. Those motors will essentially act as instant torque for the front wheels and can actively shift torque from the left to the right and vice versa depending on driving conditions. Put all three of these electric motors together and you have a twin-turbo car that will virtually never experience turbo lag.

The Chassis

The first NSX was also the first all aluminum sports car. That was ground breaking for the time but since then, OEMs have found many more ways to save weight. The new NSX still has an aluminum space frame but it now also shores up that frame with a carbon fiber floor.

The Techy Bits

What Acura refers to as the Advanced Sport Package is really a suite of tech and tuning that offers a range of driving modes by adjusting the engine (and electric motors), drivetrain, and suspension. The NSX will have an all aluminum full-independent front and rear suspension which will be mated to staggered (19×8.5 inch front, 20×11 inch rear) wheels wrapped in Continental Tires “ContiSportContact” rubber. A mode dial in the cabin will allow the driver to change between Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track modes. Each mode will make adjustments on everything from the suspension to engine to meet that specific driving condition. As you may have guessed, Quiet mode turns off the gasoline V6 and runs the NSX purely on the electric motors. Although Acura does not specifically detail the all-electric mode range or speed. They simply state that it “enables electric-only driving at lower speeds for short durations”. I think its safe to say we shouldn’t expect the new NSX to go very far on electric power alone. This suggests that, much like LaFerrari, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918, the electric motors in the NSX are purely for aiding performance and not so much about economy.

Conclusion

Now if you read all that you may have noticed a few things missing: power, and price. Thus far, Acura has not “officially” announced either of these figures. Although rumors from the NAIAS show floor is that the horsepower will be somewhere above 550 however we are not sure if they are including the added power from the electric motors or not. There are also rumblings that the price tag will hover somewhere around $150,000. If that’s true then the NSX is definitely going after Audi and Porsche’s lunch, but will they get it? Will all that the NSX is comprise of something that enthusiast equate to a $150k car? Personally, I think the price (if true) is right but I have my doubts that the market will agree. One also has to consider the monstrous mark ups that dealers are likely to tag on to the NSX once its released in…well, that’s also another mystery. As of now its unclear as to when the new NSX will hit dealers but given that the production model has just made its debut, I would be willing to guess that the NSX will be for sale very soon.

If you want to take a closer look feel free to click any of the thumbnails for HD resolution pictures. There is also more NSX information available in the official press release below.

Press Release

Jan 12, 2015 – DETROIT

Twenty-five years after the debut of the original, paradigm-shifting NSX supercar, Acura revealed the production version of its highly anticipated successor—the next-generation Acura NSX, developed and produced in the U.S.—to the world’s auto media at the 2015 North American International Auto Show today. The production model, in a scintillating NSX Red finish, took the stage with a growl from its twin-turbocharged engine.

The next generation NSX showcases the production styling, design and specifications of Acura’s mid-engine sports hybrid supercar, and Acura announced key details of the all-new vehicle’s design and performance. The company will begin accepting custom orders for the new NSX starting in the summer, with customer deliveries expected later in the year.

Specifically created to bring a “new sports experience” to the supercar segment, the NSX challenges conventional beliefs about supercars — much as the first generation did a quarter century ago. The approach is realized through an all-new power unit—a twin-turbocharged 75-degree DOHC V6 engine with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system—integrated with an ultra-rigid and lightweight multi-material body with world’s-first material applications and manufacturing processes. Developed under the concept of a “human-centered supercar,” a car that puts the driver first in every aspect of its design, the next-generation NSX will leverage its state-of-the-art hybrid supercar power unit, body and chassis to deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.

“Our commitment was to create an all-new NSX that is true to the heritage of NSX—a supercar that delivers a new driving experience, one where every part of the vehicle is respectful of the smartest part of the car, the driver,” said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president and general manager of the Acura division. “The soul of a car is the emotional connection it makes with the driver. With the NSX, that connection will be intense and immediate.”

As the pinnacle representation of Acura performance and prestige, the NSX was introduced at the auto show under the theme of “Precision Crafted Performance.” The theme was the original tagline for the Acura brand, a guiding force behind the development of the original NSX and a critical component of its launch.

The development of next-generation NSX, driven by precision crafted performance, has resulted in a clean-sheet design, which involved nearly three years of intensive development effort by a global design and engineering team led by engineers at the company’s development center in Raymond, Ohio.

“The NSX reflects Acura’s American roots and makes a powerful statement about the strong role being played by our North American operations in envisioning and building the future of Acura,” said Erik Berkman, executive vice president of the Acura Business Planning Office.

“Our global team embraced the challenge to create a new sports car experience, leveraging new technology to deliver incredibly vivid performance in a vehicle that responds intuitively and immediately to the will of the driver,” said Ted Klaus, chief engineer and global development leader of the new NSX. “The NSX delivers pinnacle supercar performance, with zero-delay acceleration and exhilarating, confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.”

Interwoven Dynamic Exterior Design
“The new NSX is a product of what we term ‘Interwoven Dynamic’ design,” said Michelle Christensen, NSX exterior design project leader. “It represents the ideal blending of exotic sports car form and supercar function.”

The NSX body features classic low and wide proportions married to modern and alluring surfacing, an aggressive front design, and tail lights that pays homage to the original NSX. The signature side intake and floating C-pillar collects air to feed the mid-mounted engine and directs airflow over the rear deck to increase downforce. To accommodate the new longitudinally mounted twin-turbo V6 and 9-speed DCT, the production vehicle was lengthened (+3 inches) and widened (+1 inch) with a slightly more cab-forward package, compared with the proportions of the NSX Concept shown in 2012.

Every element of the exterior body design has been carefully fashioned for total airflow management for both stability-enhancing downforce and vehicle systems cooling. The NSX has undergone extensive testing at the company’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel in Raymond, Ohio, leading to a number of significant changes from concept to final body design, including modified hood vents, new front fender vents, modified side air intakes, and an optimized deck spoiler.

Dimensions:

NEW NSX

2013 NSX Concept

Diff (in.)

2005 NSX

Diff (in.)

Length

176 in.
(4470 mm)

172.8 in. (4390mm)

+3.1

174.2 in.
(4425 mm)

+1.8

Width

76.4 in.
(1940 mm)

75.4 in
(1915 mm)

+1.0

71.3 in.
(1810 mm)

+5.1

Height

47.8 in.
(1215 mm)

47.2 in.
(1200 mm)

+0.6

46.1 in
(1170 mm)

+1.8

Wheelbase

103.5 in. (2630 mm)

102.8 in.
(2610 mm)

+0.8

99.6 in.
(2350 mm)

+11.0

Front track

65.2 in.
(1655 mm)

- -

- -

59.5 in.
(1510 mm)

+5.7

Rear track

63.6 in.(1615 mm)

- -

- -

60.7 in.
(1540 mm)

+3.0

Human Support Cockpit
“Consistent with the ‘human-centered supercar’ development concept, the NSX was designed from the inside out with an uncompromising focus on the driver,” said Johnathan Norman, NSX interior design project leader. “Like the original NSX, we created a ‘Human Support Cockpit’ that provides exceptional driver control, visibility and packaging, but further advanced to meet the extreme performance expectations of a modern supercar.”

The NSX’s instrument cluster features a dynamic TFT display that responds to changes in the driver-selectable Integrated Dynamics System with pertinent graphics and information. The center console holds the Power button that readies the sport hybrid powertrain, nested in the center of the new Integrated Dynamics System dial control. Interwoven under the handcrafted leather dash panel is the exposed midframe—a functioning chassis structural member that reflects the design aesthetic of a naked sport bike. An ultra-thin, yet super strong A-pillar design and low-mounted instrument panel minimize obstructions to the driver’s view of the road.

Sport Hybrid Power Unit
In keeping with the foundational philosophy of the original NSX, the next-generation NSX is designed to provide a new sports car experience that maximizes the capabilities of the driver, delivering exceptionally intuitive and confidence-inspiring response “at the will of the driver.”

Acura engineers leveraged the company’s expertise both with high-performance engine and hybrid electric-drive technologies, as well as its two decades of experience with industry-leading dynamic torque-vectoring technologies, including Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), to create the most sophisticated, technologically advanced and intelligent powertrain in the supercar universe.

The NSX uses its front electric motors for dynamic torque vectoring in addition to enhancing acceleration and braking performance. The result is an instantaneous “zero delay” launch performance and handling response that seems to anticipate the driver’s desire. The NSX has undergone extensive testing at some of the world’s most challenging race circuits, including the famed Nurburgring.

Advanced Multi-Material Body
Also in keeping with the legacy of NSX—the world’s first all-aluminum supercar—the new NSX features an innovative new multi-material body design with world’s-first material applications and construction processes.

The NSX body utilizes a space frame design—an internal frame constructed of aluminum, ultra-high strength steel and other advanced materials. Anchored by a carbon fiber floor, torsional and bending forces are taken up entirely by this ultra-rigid structure which also utilizes advanced joining technologies.

The NSX features world’s-first casting technology that combines the design and manufacturing flexibility of a casting process with the strength and elongation properties of a forged material, enabling significant weight reduction. The body panels are composed of a combination of aluminum and sheet molding composite (SMC).

Advanced Sport Package
The NSX features an “Advanced Sports Package” with placement of key powertrain components –the mid-mounted engine, twin front motors and Sport Hybrid battery pack and power control unit – optimized to concentrate vehicle mass low and toward the center of the vehicle, to further enhance dynamic response. The combination of this packaging concept and the lightweight body give the NSX the lowest center of gravity in its class.

Handling is greatly enhanced by Sport Hybrid Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD), enabling lightning-quick response to all driver inputs—steering, braking and throttle—along with the stability, control and launch performance of all-wheel drive. Agile Handling Assist (AHA) uses the subtle application of brake torque to further enhance yaw response and dynamic stability.

The NSX’s dial-operated Integrated Dynamic System features Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track modes. The system adjusts engine, motor, transmission and chassis response, as well as the engine sound level, based on the needs of the driver and driving environment. Quiet mode enables electric-only driving at lower speeds for short durations. Dynamic vehicle responses become increasingly sharp as the driver moves from Sport to Sport+ mode and, finally, to Track mode, where the NSX reveals the full spectrum of its performance capabilities.

The NSX also features a “launch” function to achieve the ultimate in “zero delay” launch performance, aided by both the engine and three electric motors.

New Production Facility
The NSX will be manufactured exclusively at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, where approximately 100 highly-skilled associates will conduct full body construction, paint, and final assembly using domestic and globally-sourced parts.

The PMC and its processes have been developed to perfectly blend associate craftsmanship and technology in a new approach to manufacturing. By in-housing the body construction, Acura maintains complete control over total body quality, including critical strength, suspension accuracy, and fit and finish—from initial construction all the way to final assembly.

Associates will utilize innovative techniques to deliver next-generation craftsmanship and world-class quality in the realm of specialized, supercar vehicle production.

With the new year comes new cars and Scion has just made a promise that they will bring at least two new models to production in 2015. The first is a production version of the iM concept that was shown last year at the LA Auto Show which will officially be called…the iM… Surprise! Ok the production name isn’t much of a surprise but there are still plenty of things about the production iM that we don’t know; Such as any horsepower, mpg, or MSRP numbers. Though, Scion assures all that information will be made available in due time.

What’s more of a mystery is the new sedan that Scion plans to bring to market. Since it will officially be the first sedan ever produced by the brand the possibilities are intriguing. Generally speaking a sedan is the most “boring” of model types. Obviously there are exceptions (WRX, Evo, M3, M5, etc.) but when most think “sedan” they think of cars like the Ford Taurus and Toyota Camry. Scion prides themselves on making their cars fun, exciting, and otherwise enticing for their intended audience. So, how will the youth driven, fun brand take on the sedan? I have no flarking idea but I am just as curious about it as you are. For more info check out the official press release below.

Press Release:

TORRANCE, Calif., (Jan. 7, 2015) – Like many others, Scion has a New Year’s Resolution to debut an all-new body by spring. And not surprisingly, all eyes will be on its backside as Scion will be adding its first-ever sedan to its line-up.

The new sedan will be introduced in April at the New York International Auto Show along with the all-new Scion iM. The iM is the official name for the production version of the iM Concept car shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

Together, the two vehicles represent two of the three new models Scion will bring to market in the next three years aimed at independently minded 18-34 year olds. The trio will bring exciting options for Scion’s younger customers looking for vehicles to support both adventure and sensibility.

“With the iM hatchback and our first sedan, we’re inviting drivers to re-imagine what they can accomplish with a Scion,” said Scion Group Vice President Doug Murtha. “Both new models will stand out in the marketplace for their style and substance. I can confidently predict that 2015 will be an exciting year for Scion.”

Beyond the name, drivers can expect the production iM to carry forward some of the sporty looks and versatility displayed in the concept version. More details on both the production iM and sedan will be available in coming months. Information on the iM Concept is available at www.scion.com/iMConcept.

Remember a while back when Lexus teased their new F car to debut at Detroit this year? Well, it looks like they couldn’t wait that long and gave the full monty to the internet today by revealing that the platform for the newest F car is the GS sedan. Thus the GS F is born. Although, Lexus warns not to confuse the GS 350 F sport with the GS F. Even though they may share the same chassis the GS F is a few clicks above the GS 350 F Sport. For starters the GS F will have a 5 liter naturally aspirated V8, slated to make 467 hp and 389 ft-lbs of torque. The V8 will be bolted to an 8 speed “lightning quick” transmission which will likely feature flappy paddles behind the steering wheel. The GS F will have the same torque vectoring differential found in the RC F which should aid in 0-60 launches. The GS F will likely need the help as it comes in at a hefty 4,034lbs total curb weight.

Pricing and availability are the only things about the GS F that Lexus has not announced yet. However I suspect that information will be available at the official launch during the Detroit Auto Show. I will admit the GS F looks pretty good in pictures and on paper (though a bit more power and torque couldn’t hurt) but is it enough to woo people away from BMW’s M5? Perhaps! For now, click the thumbnails for larger pictures and check out the official press release below.

Press Release:

TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 6, 2015) – Lexus is yet again showing its sporty disposition and rumbling into Detroit. The luxury vehicle manufacturer has announced the much-anticipated GS F performance sedan, which combines a refined four-door package with the speed and agility of a premium sports car, will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 8:40 a.m. EST in the Lexus display at Cobo Center in Detroit. The GS F will be the latest vehicle to join Lexus’ high-performance “F” line that already includes the RC F coupe.

Although the GS 350 F SPORT shares the same platform as the new GS F, they should not be confused. The GS F will have enhancements throughout, including to its engine. Under the hood will be a responsive, naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that produces a remarkable 467 hp (473 PS )* at 7,100 rpm and peak torque of 389 lb.-ft. (527 Nm)* at 4,800-5,600 rpm. This sophisticated engine uses both Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles to maximize power and efficiency in given situations. Befitting the nature of this high performance sedan, the engine will be mated to a lightning quick eight-speed automatic gearbox with manual-shifting capabilities.

Lexus’ innovative Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD), also found in the RC F, will be part of a long line of standard equipment that’ll make the GS F’s handling stand out from the crowd. The TVD features three operating modes:

Standard (default) provides a balance of agility and firmness;

Slalom emphasizes nimble steering response and agility; and

Track emphasizes control during high-speed circuit driving.

The GS F unibody will also feature structural reinforcements and suspension exclusively designed to optimize this super sedan’s handling envelope without detracting from its ride quality. Drivers will appreciate the GS F’s handling and smoothness on the open highway as well as the sedan’s ability to devour challenging roads, whether they’re winding up the side of a mountain or at a racetrack. The new GS F will offer drivers a very balanced sedan with genuine dual personality, equally adept at trimming lap times and the commute back home.

What happens when Infiniti goes half way between its Eau Rouge Q50 Concept and the full-sized Q80 Inspiration concept? You get the Q60 concept sedan. the Q60 concept is a coupe with room for four (a “true 2+2″ according to Infiniti) that is a demonstration of what is possible with the design language from the Q80 Inspiration with a performance edge. Although no actual theoretical performance numbers or specs were provided (as yet) but we do know it has some carbon fiber accents and will feature 21 inch wheels, the spokes of which were inspired by “jet turbine blades”. Well, the Q60 certainly looks the part thus far but the question is will they make it? Perhaps we will learn more once the Q60 Concept makes its official debut at the Detroit Auto Show next week. In the meantime check out the official press release below and click the thumbnail for an HD resolution pic.

HONG KONG – Ahead of the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Infiniti raises the curtain on its vision of a premium sports coupe.

The striking Q60 Concept is poised to entice coupe fans with its sharp contours and hand-crafted interior, while at the same time suggesting performance and power to match. Result: a no-compromise fusion of looks and speed.

The Q60 Concept sits low and wide in a road-hugging stance hinting at exceptional dynamics and driving pleasure.

While the Q60 Concept is fresh and original, it evokes a sense of déjà vu at times with whiffs and traces of the Q80 Inspiration (shown this past October at the Paris Motor Show) evident in its finest details.

The audaciously low roofline and quilted leather seats remind one of the elegant full-size Q80 Inspiration, while the aerodynamic gills behind the front wheel arches are inherited from the Q50 Eau Rouge sports saloon concept.

“The Q80 Inspiration was an indication of Infiniti’s future design language,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director. “The Q60 Concept is the next step in the journey. The sweeping lines of the Q80 Inspiration gave the Q60 Concept its coupe silhouette and looks while the Formula One-inspired touches from the Q50 Eau Rouge endowed the coupe with its sports personality.”

The visual excitement in the edgy lines of the concept is set off by the custom 21-inch wheels, which take up the entire wheel arch. Inspired by jet turbine blades, the black spokes in a combination of mattes and chromes stretch to the edge of the wheel, further emphasizing how “planted” the coupe is.

The high-quality ambience inside speaks of Infiniti’s meticulous attention to detail, clearly evident from the impeccable hand-stitched leather to the precise treatment of the carbon fiber accents.

Infiniti designers use a variety of leathers on the seats to provide just the perfect balance of comfort and support as befits a premium sports coupe. They also make the Q60 Concept a genuine “2+2″ coupe by giving rear passengers more legroom through the use of genuine sport seats.

As a foreshadowing of the next generation of Infiniti’s premium sports coupe, the Q60 Concept makes use of taut lines and sports car cues to convey exceptional stance and presence.

See the Q60 Concept in the metal when Infiniti holds its 2015 NAIAS press conference at 8:10 a.m. ET on Tuesday, January 13.

About Infiniti
Infiniti Motor Company Ltd. is headquartered in Hong Kong with sales operations in over 50 countries. The Infiniti brand was launched in 1989. Its range of premium automobiles is currently built in manufacturing facilities in Japan, the United States and China. Production in the UK will start in 2015, bringing with it significant expansion of the brand’s portfolio. Infiniti plans to also expand manufacturing into Mexico by 2017.

As the Title Partner and Vehicle Performance Partner of Infiniti Red Bull Racing, Infiniti has a far-reaching technical collaboration with the four-time FIA Formula One World Championship winning Team.

More information about Infiniti, its Total Ownership Experience® and its industry leading technologies can be found at www.infinitiUSA.com. For the latest news on Infiniti, visit InfinitiNews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

In the last “12 Days Of Hype” post I talked about Skip Barber racing school as a great gift for the hardcore motorsports fan in your life. However, if you want to just gift someone a day on a race track with crazy exotic cars like Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and the like, then Exotics Racing is a good choice as well. With Facilities at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Auto Club Speedway in California they are within relatively easy reach for anyone on the west coast. Exotics Racing offers different packages that allow participants to take hot laps in one of up to 15 cars that cover the gamut. Want to drive a Lamborghini Huracan? They have one. What about a Ferrari 458 Italia? They have a few of those too. McLaren MP4-12C? Yessir! They even have Nissan GT-R’s available.

Since all of their experiences are one day they are much easier on the wallet than say a full racing school such as Skip Barber. Driving packages at Exotics Racing start at around $199 and go up from there. If someone just wants to ride shot gun then there are high-speed ride alongs offered for $99. I have personally checked out the facility at Auto Club Speedway and I can tell you that the staff really goes the distance to make sure participants have a good experience. If you are trying to think of a good gift then I would recommend considering a day at Exotics Racing. Hit the source link below for more info.

Lexus has been doing a lot of F’s lately. Seriously, its like for the last year or so every time they have come out with a car they have F’d it. They sure do enjoy F-ing things. OK, ok I will stop with the double entendres or it will go on all day. The big take away from all this is that a new F Sport vehicle is making its debut at the Detroit Auto Show AKA North American International Auto Show AKA NAIAS. Not much is known about the car aside from the teaser image that was released and that Lexus is referring to the new F-sport car as “track ready”. Although that term is thrown around a lot in this industry so I can’t be entirely sure if they really mean track ready or if that is just marketing speak for high performance. I guess we will all find out for sure come January 2015.

Judging by the press release below Lexus is pretty excited to give everyone a fast and powerful F… OK, seriously that was the last one! Check out the incredibly short press release below.

Press Release:

TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2014) – Lexus announced it will be adding a second vehicle to its growing stable of F brand high performance models. Earlier this year, the luxury manufacturer launched the RC F, a V8 powered performance coupe. The newest Lexus F brand vehicle will make its global premiere at the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on Jan. 13. The vehicle will be revealed at a press conference in the Lexus display space at Cobo Center on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 8:40 a.m. EST.

MotorworldHype.com was launched back in 2008 and to help us get the word out we partnered up with Lexus to style an IS-F sedan for SEMA that year. My concept for the car was to go subtle but still remain performance minded and my ultimate goal/dream for the concept was for Lexus to take a look at it and want to actually produce it as a special edition. That didn’t happen obviously but when I visited the LA Auto Show to check out the new RC-F coupe, lets just say I had a smile on my face. If you want to know what I mean check out the video below and stay tuned for more from the LA Auto Show!

It happens every year. An OEM will tease a car or concept that is going to debut at a up coming auto show and then anywhere from a week to a month before said show, said car leaks in all its glory. The leak is usually a result of dealer documents leaking online or ninja photographers getting shots of the car as it rolls into the auto show venue. Really there are all kinds of ways that a car can leak ahead of schedule. Scion knows this just as well as the rest of us. After dropping a teaser a few weeks back for their new iM concept interest in the car as been high. They could feel the storm brewing, a leak was coming! What were they going to do about it?!

Leak it themselves! If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! Today Scion decided not to wait for the inevitable “leak” and did a digital reveal of their new iM concept car ahead of the LA Auto Show (where it is supposed to “officially” debut). In addition to giving us the full monty we also got a little background on the concept via a press release. It looks like the theme for the new iM is to basically merge the practicality and comfort that comes with your basic commuter with edgy and somewhat aggressive styling that is commonly found on sports cars. I actually like the idea myself. Why should a daily “A to B” car look like a boring box? It shouldn’t! How do you like the iM concept? Would you get one? Let us know in the comments. For now, click the thumbnails for a larger picture and for more info check out the press release below. Also stay tuned as I will spend some time with the iM concept at the LA Auto Show coming up!

TORRANCE, Calif., (Nov. 12, 2014) – Whether it’s exploring the mountains or playing at the beach, Los Angeles offers adventures off every freeway. Young people just need a vehicle to get them, and all their gear, to their destination in style. The new Scion iM Concept car is designed with that in mind and will debut on Wednesday, November 19 at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The iM Concept is a five-door compact hatchback with sporty looks inspired by those seen on the European touring car racing circuit. The concept brings in captivating styling with edgy, geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights. The custom-blended “Incrediblue” paint is complemented by matte silver and gunmetal accents.

To create a grounded appearance ready for the road, the iM Concept has wide aerodynamics and a lower ride height. The performance inspiration carries through into the 19-inch forged alloy wheels and sporty performance tires. Vented front rotors and 4-piston calipers work with the adjustable height racing suspension to complete the racecar-influenced design.

“The tastes of today’s younger buyers have evolved. They want a car that provides excitement and individuality, as well as the comfort, technology and reliability that Scion offers,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “The iM Concept combines sleek styling with the versatility of a modern hatchback to catch the eye of Scion customers. Stay tuned for more on how we will bring this vision to the road.”

Scion’s press conference will be held at 3:40 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19 at Scion’s display in the South Hall. To follow Scion news at the LA Auto Show use the hashtag #iMDriven or visit http://www.scion.com/blog.